Organized way of setting up (introductory) physics problem

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around methods for organizing introductory physics problem setups. Participants explore various formats for structuring their problem-solving approach, focusing on clarity and effectiveness in identifying knowns, unknowns, and relevant equations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant mentions using the "Known____Unknown______Equations" format but finds it insufficiently organized.
  • Another participant suggests an alternative format of "Variables____Components_______________Equations" but does not elaborate further.
  • Several participants encourage sharing examples of preferred organization formats to enhance clarity.
  • A participant emphasizes the importance of starting with a Free Body Diagram, followed by listing knowns and unknowns, and then identifying relevant equations, advocating for symbolic solutions over numerical ones.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no consensus on a single preferred method for organizing physics problems, and multiple competing views on effective formats remain present in the discussion.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not provided specific examples of their proposed formats, and there may be assumptions about the familiarity with certain organizational methods that are not explicitly stated.

Who May Find This Useful

Students and educators looking for structured approaches to solving introductory physics problems may find this discussion relevant.

raddian
Messages
66
Reaction score
0
I did not post this on the homework forum because they required to use the template.

First, I have been using the "Known____Unknown______Equations" format; however, I feel this is not organized well enough for me. Then, I tried "Variables____Components_______________Equations" format. Do you guys have other very organized physics problems set-ups that you use?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
I suggest you post an example of an organization format that you prefer.
 
Stephen Tashi said:
I suggest you post an example of an organization format that you prefer.

In a loose leaf paper.
2u4husg.jpg
 
The first thing you should put on your paper is a Free Body Diagram; always. After that, write down knowns and unknowns. Then find relevant equations and start reasoning your way to a solution. The longer you wait to start plugging numbers in, the better. Symbolic solutions are more useful than numerical.
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: 1 person

Similar threads

  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
3K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
3K
Replies
6
Views
2K
Replies
32
Views
3K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
4K